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Do you have a great business idea which could positively impact your local community or environment?
You could be part of the social business movement, joining over 6,000 social enterprises across Scotland which already trade to address social needs, to strengthen communities, to improve people’s lives and to protect the environment?
The Highlands and Islands region is part of an international programme offering dedicated help for anyone setting up or developing a new social business.
Four social business start-up schools have been set up across the region - in Sutherland, Wester Ross, Easter Ross and in the Outer Hebrides. Until we can meet again safely, and whilst COVID-19 restrictions continue to apply, Start-Up School will be delivered entirely online.
By signing up to this programme you'll get access to:
Get in touch today if you're interested in finding out how the programme can help you.
For more information, or to discuss how you can get involved, get in touch today.
Social enterprises are big business. Over 80,000 jobs are supported by the sector in Scotland and it contributes £2bn GVA. Around a third of Scotland’s social enterprises are in rural areas. We can help people with a great idea get it off the ground.Margaret McSporran, head of social enterprise development, HIE
You can develop a successful business which also delivers important social benefits. Get some inspiration from this successful Highland project.
The Shieling ProjectThe Start-Up Schools are part of the Support Network for Social Entrepreneurs, an Interreg North West Europe partnership project. The programme is fully funded by Interreg North West Europe, run by HIE and delivered by the Social Enterprise Academy.
What support will be delivered through the Start-Up School?
Support will be tailored to your individual needs and delivered in your local area, at times that suit your wider commitments.
Here's other support you might be interested in
How we can help businesses with a social and economic impact
Communities are at the heart of social and economic development
We support businesses and social enterprises of all sizes through funding and advice. Get in touch today to see how we can help you become the next Highlands and Islands based business success story.
